The Incident
On September 15, 2024, former President Donald Trump was the target of a shocking assassination attempt while golfing at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The attack occurred just weeks before the 2024 U.S. presidential election, in which Trump was the Republican nominee.
At approximately 1:30 PM Eastern Time, a Secret Service agent stationed several holes ahead of Trump’s group spotted a rifle barrel protruding from the shrubbery near the course. The agent immediately fired upon the suspect, later identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh. The suspect fled the scene, but was apprehended shortly thereafter while driving northbound on Interstate 95 in Martin County, around 60 miles from the golf club. Routh was taken into custody without further incident.
Authorities recovered an AK-47-style rifle, two backpacks containing ceramic ballistic plates, and a GoPro camera near the golf course’s fence line. Investigators believe Routh intended to document the assassination attempt.
The Suspect
Ryan Wesley Routh, a former resident of Greensboro, North Carolina, had a history of legal issues, including a 2002 conviction for possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Leading up to the attack, Routh had been observed making threatening statements online and had expressed frustration with the political system. In a letter found at his residence, he referred to the assassination attempt as a “failure” and offered $150,000 to anyone who could “finish the job.”
Trump’s Response
Former President Trump was unharmed during the incident. Following the attack, he released a statement thanking law enforcement for their swift response and expressing gratitude to the Secret Service for their protection. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to continuing his presidential campaign, emphasizing that the attempt would not deter him from his political goals.
Political Reactions
The assassination attempt elicited strong reactions across the political spectrum. President Joe Biden expressed relief that Trump was unharmed and praised the professionalism of the law enforcement agencies involved. Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned the act of violence, emphasizing the critical importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and the safety of all public officials, regardless of political affiliation.
Legal Proceedings
Following his arrest, Ryan Wesley Routh was charged with attempted assassination of a presidential candidate, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and other related offenses. He is currently awaiting trial, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for September 8, 2025. The case will likely have significant legal and political implications, with heightened security and attention surrounding the trial.
The attempted assassination has reignited concerns about political violence and security for public figures in the United States. As the country prepares for the upcoming election, this alarming incident has raised further questions about the increasingly polarized political climate and the growing threat to public safety.
